Expansion of Telehealth in Primary Care during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Introduction

• Authors: Dhaliwal, Hall, LaRue, Maynard, Pierre, Bransby
• Published in: Journal of the American Association of Nurse Practitioners
• Issue: Volume 34, Issue 2, February 2022
• DOI: 10.1097/JXX.0000000000000626

Background

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine in outpatient settings.
• Virtual care became the default modality for extending primary care.
• Telehealth was vital for maintaining continuity of care, especially in chronic disease management.
• The article examines the benefits and challenges of telehealth in primary care settings.

Benefits of Telehealth

• Continuity of Care: Ensuring ongoing management of chronic diseases.
• Convenience: Easier access to healthcare services.
• Screening and Triaging: Efficiently identifying patient needs remotely.
• Social Distancing: Minimizing disease transmission risks by reducing in-person visits.

Financial Implications

• Reimbursement: Discussion on payment structures for telehealth services.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Analysis on the economic benefits of telehealth.

Challenges and Barriers

• Implementation Issues: Difficulties in integrating telehealth into existing practice frameworks.
• Nurse Practitioner (NP) Role: Highlighting the role and leadership of NPs in telehealth.
• Guidance for Implementation: Strategies for effective telehealth deployment in primary care.

Author Contributions

• All authors contributed significantly to the manuscript's concept and editing process.
• They are accountable for the content and approve the final version of the manuscript.

Related Topics

• Quality care comparison between nurse practitioners and physicians.
• Enhancing telehealth competency in nurse practitioner curriculum.
• Telehealth policy guides for nurse practitioners.

Contact Details

• Correspondence: Kristen A. Bransby, Penn State College of Nursing
• Email: [email protected]

Conclusion

• The article provides a comprehensive overview of telehealth's role during the COVID-19 pandemic. It underscores telehealth's importance in maintaining care delivery amidst a global crisis, highlighting both benefits and barriers to its broader adoption.

Further Reading and Resources

• Readers interested in more information can visit the journal's official page, subscribe for updates, or access additional articles related to telehealth advancements and nurse practitioner roles in healthcare.